Motor vehicles are an incredible invention that have revolutionized the way we live, work and interact all over the world. A vast majority of Canadian citizens have obtained a driver’s license, and there are now more cars on the road than ever before. According to an accident survey conducted by the City of Toronto in 2003, there are approximately 561 accidents per 100,000 people in the metropolitan population; this also includes bicycles and pedestrians. And the number has only gone up since then. While honing your own driving skills is important for avoiding accidents, you wield little control over the actions of others, which most often contributes to car accidents. While insurance is a wonderful thing designed to help you recover your financial losses after an accident, there are several factors that can disqualify you from receiving compensation and car accident benefits. These should be thoroughly understood before an injury occurs.

 

 

Accidents happen to everyone and are sometimes unavoidable mistakes, which is why they are called accidents and not "on purposes”. However, there are still some exceptions where an insurance company might consider the accident to be your fault, even if it is not.

 

Driving Under the Influence – Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs is not only a dangerous crime, but also a top disqualifier for car accident benefits. Even in cases in which the the accident is unquestionably the fault of the other driver, you will be held accountable for contributing to creating a dangerous driving environment, and not only will you almost certainly lose any financial compensation benefits, but you might also be charged with a crime during your recovery.

 

Committing a Criminal Offense – If your accident occurs during, or as the result of, committing a crime, then you will not be eligible to receive benefits to help you recover.

 

Driving without a Valid License or Insurance – The province of Ontario subscribes to a "no-fault” policy, which means that when an accident occurs, it is your insurance company’s responsibility to cover the costs incurred and any damages that may result in the future. If you do not have a valid driver’s license, you are not legally qualified to be on the road. Consequently, insurance will not honour your claim. If you do not have an insurance policy of your own in the first place, then you will not be able to receive benefits due to the aforementioned "no-fault” policy.

 

While quality legal representation can help clients achieve substantial compensation for their injuries, it becomes an impossible task if the courts will not hear the case. Be sure to follow the legal requirements of your insurance policy to ensure that you are covered, should the worst happen. Also take steps to prevent accidents. Have your vehicle serviced regularly, always be observant of what is happening around you and remember to never panic during an accident. Following the law and these few tips may help you prevent an accident in the first place. However, should the unthinkable occur, contact a reputable law firm in your area to receive the maximum car accident benefits you deserve.